The monkeypox outbreak was recorded during 2022-2023, but the current epidemic has emerged from a more dangerous strain. Monkeypox is a highly contagious disease.
Initially, the virus was transmitted from animals to humans, but today it is also spread from person to person through direct bodily contact and airborne droplets. This occurs if an infected person breathes on someone else’s face or talks to them at close range, wrote BBC.
The virus can also spread through contact with objects such as linens, clothes, and towels.
The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of the flu and may include a rash with blisters. In severe cases, the rash can cover the entire body, including the mouth, eyes, and genitals, and can be painful. The disease typically lasts 14 to 21 days and may resolve on its own.
Some strains can be fatal. Until recently, the smallpox outbreak was associated with the less dangerous Clade II. However, Clade I is now widespread in Africa and has a mortality rate of 10 percent. The World Health Organization noted that the disease has been recorded in 116 countries. At the beginning of this year, more than 13,700 cases and approximately 500 deaths were reported in Congo.
Infections have been reported in the Central African Republic, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and other countries.
The World Health Organization reminds us that in May 2022, the disease spread across Europe, North and South America, and eventually around the world, resulting in 112 deaths. Homosexuals and bisexuals were affected more frequently. Any person in close contact with infected individuals can contract the disease. Babies are also at risk because their immune systems are still developing. People with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk.
It is advised to avoid close contact with patients who have monkeypox and to wash hands frequently with soap. Patients should isolate themselves. According to the World Health Organization, condoms should be used for 12 weeks after recovery. Vaccines are available, but they are generally provided to people in high-risk groups or those who have been in contact with infected individuals.
Recently, the World Health Organization appealed to drug manufacturers to continue developing vaccines against smallpox, even if these vaccines have not yet received clinical approval. The Danish company Bavarian Nordic has assured that it has sufficient production capacity to meet the demand.
The African Center for Disease Control and Prevention has declared a public health emergency on the continent and hopes that governments can better coordinate their responses. Without global action, there is a real risk that the current outbreak could spread beyond Africa’s borders.
